Public Opposition to Dunkin' Donuts in Washington Crossing Grows

An effort to stop a Dunkin' Donuts from coming to Washington Crossing is gaining momentum.

An online petition launched by a group of residents to oppose the construction of the fast-food restaurant in the historic village now has more than 100 signatures. Plus, a paper petition at Colonial Farms has nine pages of signatures, according to resident Ronnie LaNasa, who is advocating against the Dunkin' Donuts.

In addition to the online petition, the residents have started a Facebook page to spread the word of their effort. They want the Upper Makefield Zoning Hearing Board to reject variances required for the Dunkin' Donuts to be constructed at 1240 General Washington Memorial Blvd (Route 532).

A portion of that shopping center currently houses the Washington Crossing Animal Hospital.

On June 25, the Upper Makefield Zoning Hearing Board will hold a public hearing to consider the requested variances. The public hearing begins at 7 p.m. at the Upper Makefield Township municipal building, 1076 Eagle Road.

The group opposes the Dunkin' Donuts because they say it "will alter the essential character of the neighborhood and be detrimental to the public welfare,” according to the Facebook page.

Residents who signed the petition say the eatery will tarnish the historic area.

"We've got enough shopping centers. There's only one Washington's Crossing," one person wrote on the petition.

"Haven't they taken enough away from this historic gem? It has already changed drastically in the last 35 years," another wrote.

"I live in Washington Crossing and this will ruin the the culture and history of the town," said one person who signed the petition.

Milk House Farm Market and Diane Vincent's Jewelers are also gathering signatures to prevent the Dunkin Donuts, LaNasa said.